How to get to Egilsstadir

Egilsstadir is a welcoming and strategically important town in the eastern part of Iceland, situated on the picturesque banks of Lake Lagarfljót. As the region's main transport hub, it serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the mysterious East Fjords and the surrounding natural beauties. When planning a trip to Egilsstadir, tourists can choose a quick flight or embark on an unforgettable journey by land, enjoying the rugged landscapes of the "Land of Ice."

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the east of the island is by air. The town is served by its own Egilsstadir Airport (EGS), which receives regular flights and ensures reliable connections with other regions of the country. The airport is located in immediate proximity to the town, making the transfer quick and hassle-free.

If a direct flight is unavailable, travelers often use airports in major cities such as Reykjavik (REK) or Akureyri (AEY) as transit hubs. From there, you can continue your journey via local airlines, significantly reducing travel time compared to ground transport.

It is important to note that there is no railway service at all in Iceland, so it is impossible to get to Egilsstadir by train. There are no railway stations in the town itself or in nearby settlements.

Tourists arriving in Reykjavik or Akureyri are advised to consider alternative transport options: car rental, bus services, or domestic flights, as the train network familiar to mainland Europe is replaced here by a well-developed road system.

Bus travel is an excellent way to reach your destination while contemplating the changing landscapes outside the window. One of the most popular routes is the trip from the city of Akureyri: covering a distance of 268 km will take approximately 3.6 hours, which is quite comfortable for most travelers.

For those ready for long journeys for the sake of economy or adventure, there is a route from the capital. The journey from the city of Reykjavik, nearly 700 km long, will require about 27 hours of travel time, making this option suitable only for the most patient tourists with ample time.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to stop at waterfalls and canyons along the way. The road from Akureyri (about 247 km) will take approximately 3 hours, and the route from Raufarhöfn will require just over three hours of driving along scenic highways.

If you are starting from Reykjavik, prepare for a full-fledged road trip: the distance of 635 km is usually covered in 7.8–8 hours of driving time. This is part of the famous Ring Road, so the surface quality on the main route will be excellent, making the trip safe and pleasant.

Egilsstadir is a peaceful and hospitable town, but the rugged Icelandic nature requires preparation from the traveler. To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible, we have compiled several important recommendations.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The weather here is changeable even in summer. Be sure to bring multi-layered clothing: thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, and a windproof, waterproof coat. An umbrella is useless due to the wind; a raincoat is better.
2. Transport. Public transport within the town is not widely developed due to the short distances. The best option for freedom of movement is a rented car, preferably with four-wheel drive if you plan to travel outside the town in winter.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Cash is practically unnecessary: cards are accepted everywhere, even in campsites and restrooms. However, having a small amount of change just in case is helpful.
4. Health and Safety. You can and should drink water directly from the tap — it is pristine. Medical services are of a high standard but expensive, so travel insurance is mandatory. The single number for emergency services is 112.
5. Local Etiquette. Strict hygiene rules apply in swimming pools and hot springs: it is necessary to take a shower without swimwear before entering the water. This is a standard procedure treated very seriously here.
6. Communication. Most locals speak English fluently. Learning a couple of words in Icelandic, for example, "Takk" (thank you), will elicit a sincere smile.
7. What to Avoid. Never drive off the marked roads (off-road driving). This is strictly prohibited by law, causes irreparable harm to the fragile moss, and is punishable by huge fines.
8. Additional Tip. Visit the Hallormsstaðaskógur forest near the town — this is the largest forest area in Iceland, which is a great rarity for the island.

By following these simple rules, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on the beauty of East Iceland.